Summary
Highlights
Fascism is characterized as a cult of the leader who promises national restoration in the face of perceived humiliation by various groups. It's inherently right-wing, based on ultra-nationalism, and utilizes a specific ideological structure where individual elements like authoritarianism are bundled together. Stanley clarifies that not all terrible things are fascist, and cites examples like Stalin and Mao as left-wing authoritarians, distinct from fascism's particular ideology.
Fascist movements thrive on a mythic past that glorifies military strength and the dominance of a specific racial group. Leaders claim this greatness has been stripped away by "leftists and communists." Fascist propaganda is distinctive, employing a clear friend/enemy distinction. Political opponents are portrayed as existential threats to the nation and its traditions, fundamentally opposing the nation's well-being.
Fascism revolves around a cult of the leader who dictates truth and falsehood. Expertise, reality, and institutions that offer multiple perspectives (like history in schools) are viewed as challenges to the leader's authority. Stanley argues that truth is central to democracy and equality, as being lied to renders people unfree. Political equality means holding powerful figures accountable for lies, and thus, undermining truth is a key tactic to dismantle democracy.
Fascism is built on a foundation of hierarchy, promoting the "big lie" that certain groups are inherently superior. This leads to racism and other forms of discrimination, which are essentially moral claims of one group's greater worth. Once hierarchies are established, people are made fearful of losing their position, leading to a sense of victimhood where dominant groups perceive themselves as victims of equality, such as "German Christians are victims of Jews" or "White Americans are victims of Black American equality."
In fascist politics, "law and order" is not about justice or equality but about maintaining the dominance of the favored group. Minority groups are deemed inherently non-law-abiding unless they accept a subservient role. Conversely, members of the dominant group and the leader are by definition law-abiding, implying the leader cannot violate law and order. This redefines law and order to legitimate certain groups and delegitimize others.
Fascist leaders consistently claim that "your women and children are under threat" and that a strong man is needed to protect families. They exploit conservative anxieties about changing societal norms, such as transgender rights or homosexuality, by portraying these as attacks on traditional values and family structures rather than efforts towards equality. This tactic aims to win over conservatives by presenting the fascist leader as the only protector against perceived existential threats.
Fascist movements often exploit an urban/rural divide, portraying cities as centers of decadence, criminality, and elitism, while rural areas are depicted as home to the "pure, hard-working, real members of the nation." They emphasize the virtue of hard work, exemplified by the phrase "Arbeit macht frei" (Work shall make you free) at Auschwitz. This ideology devalues those who cannot work (like the disabled, who were murdered in the T4 program), suggesting their lives are "unworthy of life" if they cannot contribute through labor.
Stanley emphasizes that no single element discussed is inherently fascist. However, when these elements coalesce, it's a cause for serious concern. Fascism can lure in otherwise "honest conservatives" by convincing them that they are in an "existential fight" and that their family is under threat. These are the critical moments to be vigilant about the rise of fascism.